Lakers Edge Pelicans 102-99 in Back-and-Forth Battle
NEW ORLEANS — After an impressive win against the Spurs, the Los Angeles Lakers encountered a challenging game against the shorthanded New Orleans Pelicans, ultimately securing a narrow 102-99 victory on Saturday night. The win improved the Lakers’ record to 9-4 for the season.
From the outset, the Lakers seemed to struggle for energy and offensive rhythm, hindered by injuries that forced adjustments to their rotation. The team faced a significant challenge keeping the Pelicans off the offensive glass during the first half, falling behind by as much as 15 points.
Despite these obstacles, star players Anthony Davis and rookie Dalton Knecht propelled a second-half comeback. Davis delivered a standout performance with 31 points and 14 rebounds, while Knecht contributed a career-high 25 points, shooting 10-of-17 from the field. The duo combined for 26 of the Lakers’ 29 points in the third quarter, turning a 10-point halftime deficit into a lead.
LeBron James also played a crucial role, finishing the game with 21 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. After struggling for much of the night with his shooting, James hit two pivotal three-pointers in the final moments, including a critical shot that put the Lakers ahead 98-97.
The Pelicans, missing key players like Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum, were led by Brandon Ingram’s 32 points.
The Lakers will look to build on their momentum with a three-game homestand starting Tuesday against the Utah Jazz in the NBA Cup Group Play at Crypto.com Arena, after kicking off the tournament with a victory over the Spurs.
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